Nashville plans new resource center to help domestic violence victims

Metro on Tuesday introduced the crown jewel in their efforts to improve domestic violence: a 3,300-square-foot Victim Resource Center.

The project, part of several improvements Metro announced Tuesday, would offer a safe place for victims of domestic violence to meet with counselors and get help as their cases go through the criminal justice system. It is expected to open by August in the Ben West Building on James Robertson Parkway and would have volunteer "navigators" guide victims through court.

"Their first experience in court will affect potentially their next experiences in court. So we're really working and looking towards how to change that experience from ? a victim's perspective," said Diane Lance, special counsel to Mayor Karl Dean, who has spearheaded the city's efforts.